Kristopher Barkley

The primary focus of Kris’ career has been the design of complex buildings specifically intended to be enduring. The California ISO Headquarters, California State Emergency Management Agency Headquarters and Sacramento State’s Academic Information Resource Center are all great examples. These buildings are technically advanced yet respond to the human condition through thoughtful planning, attention to detail and provision of natural light.

Enhancing the public’s design awareness is also an area of focus for Kris. He says the best way to convey the importance of good design is through transparency. To promote this, Kris enmeshes himself in the design community, authoring presentations like “Understanding Architecture” which was developed for government officials and special interest groups. He also co-founded and co-leads the “Architecture Matters: Design Forum” series; chairs both the AIACV and AIACC Design Awards committees; and serves as a juror for multiple design award programs. These are just a few examples of how Kris’ life outside of work reflects his dedication to design.

Over the course of his 25-year tenure with Dreyfuss + Blackford, Kris has designed nearly all of the firm’s projects, many of which have garnered notable design awards. To this day, he remains on the cutting edge of innovation.

“Travel is one of the most important facets of my life. The best way to avoid tunnel vision is to get out there and experience the world at all levels. It really puts things in perspective and can be quite refreshing, especially if it includes wine.”